Cover photo for James Vangen's Obituary
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1936 James 2010

James Vangen

June 10, 1936 — August 28, 2010

Funeral services for James M. Vangen of Albert Lea , MN , will be held at 10:30 AM Wednesday, September 1, 2010 at the Grace Lutheran Church of Albert Lea. Reverend Todd Walsh and Reverend Andrea Myers will officiate. Friends may call Tuesday evening from 5 until 7 PM at the Bonnerup Funeral Service and one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be in Ft Snelling National Cemetery, Minneapolis , MN .



James died Saturday evening, August 28, 2010 at St Johns Lutheran Home, Albert Lea , MN . He was 74 years of age.



James was born June 10, 1936 the son of Minord H. and Harriet C. ( Anderson ) Vangen. He graduated from Ellendale High school and entered the US Air Force serving in Alaska . He was united in marriage to Carolyn Richter on September 29, 1990 at the Grace Lutheran Church where he had been a member for many years.



James was a dispatcher for over 37 years with Interstate Power (Allient Energy). He was a member of the American Legion, Elks Club and the Eagles Club. Jim was a dedicated fan of Albert Lea sports especially hockey, baseball and football. He spent over 20 years coaching VFW baseball and hockey. His Swedish hockey exchanges spanned over a 13 year period. They united hundreds of families and provided education and global enrichment through a home sharing program. Lifelong friendships were made through these exchanges. He loved high school football and held his seats on the 50 yard line for a number of years. He taught his children how to golf, ice skate, throw, kick and hit a ball and was never more proud than watching his own children compete. And of course, he was a fan of the Vikings, the Twins, the Gophers, the Coyotes and Diamondbacks as well.



James is survived by his wife Carolyn of Albert Lea, MN, children; Gregory Vangen of Edina , MN , Bradley and his wife Nancy Vangen of Delaware , Ohio , Gayle and her husband John Jurik of Phoenix , Arizona and stepson Jeffery and his wife Chris Sanvick of Winona , MN . Grandchildren include; Lars and Nels Vangen, Annika Jurik and step grandsons Conner and Carsen Sanvick. One sister survives; Sharon (Herman) Marthalor of Cambridge, MN.



James was preceded in death by his parents, Brother Gary Ross (Julie) Vangen and a brother David L. Vangen in infancy.


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